BassBoss SSP218 User manual

User’s Manual
Dual 18”
Powered Subwoofer
SSP218

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Extended Deep Bass
Super-High Continuous Output
Exceptional Sound Quality
Unbeatable Reliability
Description 3
Specifications 4
Setup Instructions 5
Operation and Controls 6
Cardioid Switch 6
Photos 7
Troubleshooting 8
Flash Sequence Codes 8
Safety Information 9
Warranty 10
FCC Compliance Notice 11
Table of contents
Dual 18”
Powered Subwoofer
SSP218

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Our original powered, double 18” subwoofer design is a combination of sensitivity, depth, power handling,
delity and value. The SSP218 oers the most cost-eective solution for those who need big bass, providing
huge low end for the price.
Delivering massive output at and above 30Hz, reliably, consistently and with great delity. Modern electronic,
jazz, reggae, pop and R&B music emphasize bass and put tremendous demands on low frequency loudspeakers.
The SSP218 delivers the energy and power of modern music and it is built to take the stress of doing so
continuously, to the extremes, without fail.
Incorporating innovative new technologies into rigidly braced, large vented boxes that are optimized for
maximum output and reliability. The SSP218 sustains its output long-term and is practically impossible to blow
thanks to the combination of extremely rugged, very high power handling, long excursion drivers, carefully
optimized cabinet and port design and several eective but transparent protection systems. The protection
systems eectively prevent thermal overload of the voice coils and minimize long-term thermal compression
while having virtually no eect on the transient response and peak output of the loudspeaker.
Very high output, low frequency sound with extremely low distortion. The SSP218 system is optimized for
full-power operation and is designed to operate at full rated RMS power throughout its operating range while
the woofers remain within their X-max specication.
Versatile and durable, the cabinet is nished in black textured weatherproof polyurethane coating.
A top-mounted pole socket in each SSP218 provides for mid-high loudspeakers to be mounted on a straight
speaker pole above the subwoofer. The enclosures also feature four large rubber feet and corresponding
recesses in their tops to facilitate interlocking the boxes when stacked. The woofers’ cones are made from a
waterproof ber matrix.
Extremely at, delivering response that is ±1.5dB from 32Hz to 100Hz. No equalization is required to achieve
this response. Unlike designs that require equalization, the SSP218’s tone, response and sensitivity are native
to the design. Systems that require processing to achieve their stated response are still subject to the physical
excursion and thermal limits of their drivers. Boosting low frequency EQ to achieve extended low-frequency
response results in excessive distortion or woofer damage at full power unless limiting is applied. The limiting
necessary to prevent failure also prevents the realization of their claimed frequency response at full power.
Engineered to work hard and continue to work where others fail. The BASSBOSS warranty provides 6 years
of coverage against defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty DOES cover failed drivers, including
burned voice coils, for 2 years from the date of purchase. If a voice coil, or anything else, fails within the warranty
period, replacement parts will be provided without charge. (See warranty documentation for complete details).
With the peace of mind aorded by plentiful, clean, undistorted output and comprehensive protection systems,
you can condently push the SSP218 Subwoofer to levels and depths that would otherwise require more or
bigger cabinets.
Ideally suited for use as a professional touring subwoofer, its truck-pack dimensions are compatible with 90”
and 96” truck widths and up to four boxes can be stacked and transported on a single dolly cart. This allows 16
subwoofers and their 64,000 watts of amplication to be transported in as little as 5’ of 96” wide truck space or
12 boxes and 48,000 Watts in 4’ of 90” truck space. On their custom-t wheel carts with locking casters, stacks
of 2 or 3 SSP218s can be rolled into place and used without the need to remove them from their carts. For added
exibility, the SSP218s can be stacked on their carts facing forwards or in cardioid conguration.
Description:

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SPECIFICATIONS
Dual 18” Powered Subwoofer
SSP218
Loudspeaker Description: High-Output Dual 18” Subwoofer
Frequency Response (±3 dB): 30-100Hz
Maximum Sustained Output: 135 dB SPL, 1m, 2pi, (half-space)
Max SPL (Peak)* 141 dB
Nominal Dispersion (°H x °V): 360 x 360 - Cardioid Mode Available with Multiple Boxes
Acoustical
Amplification: 4000 Watt Continuous RMS Class D Amplifier
Processing: Integrated comprehensive DSP provides high pass, low pass, phase alignment and limiting
Electrical Connector, Amplifier: Neutrik PowerCON input (Blue) NAC3FCA
Electrical Connector, Mains: Standard US 3-pin 120V electrical plug: NEMA 5-15 (Edison)
Optional electrical plugs available, including L5-30 and others, upon request.
Voltage Operating Range: 90-130V
Current Draw, Nominal: 4.6A @ 120 volts (typical, 1/8 max power)
Signal Input Connector: XLR-F
Signal Output Connector: XLR-M full-range pass-through
Electrical
Enclosure Type: Direct radiating vented enclosure, optimally tuned for extended low frequency response
with high sensitivity and high power handling
Transducers: Two 18” (457 mm) neodymium motor woofers with 4” (100mm) copper winding voice coils
Cabinet Construction: 18mm Baltic Birch plywood, extensively braced. Equipped with 4 handles and interlocking
rubber feet
Dimensions (HxWxD): 22.5” x 48” x 29.5” (57.15 cm x 121.92 cm x 74.93 cm) - 23.25” (59.05 cm) high with feet
Net Weight: 199 lbs. (90 kg)
Shipping Weight: 230 lbs. (104 kg)
Exterior Finish: Weatherproof bonded high-pressure polyurethane
Grill: Perforated, powder-coated steel
Physical
Suspension System: 16 X 3/8-16 Threaded Flypoints
Transport Dollies: Dolly cart with 4 locking casters and recesses to accept interlocking cabinet feet for
transporting 1 to 3 cabinets
Covers: Heavy-duty padded nylon transport covers for 1 to 3 cabinets
Online Information: bassboss.com/ssp218
Optional
Our proactive philosophy causes specifications to be subject to change whenever improvements are made.
*Peak output is calculated using “industry standard” techniques. These calculation methods create theoretical specications that are inated over what can actually be
achieved. BASSBOSS real world output specications are provided as “Maximum Sustained Output” ratings, which reect actual measured, continuous output levels.

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Setup Instructions:
1. Place loudspeaker in the desired location. Ensure that it is secure and stable.
2. Rotate the input attenuator knob counterclockwise to the lowest setting.
3. Connect signal from the sound source (mixer) via the XLR female input jack.
4. Connect the XLR male output to the next available loudspeaker input via an XLR cable (if applicable.)
This is a full-range pass-through connection and no processing is applied to this output.
5. Connect the Neutrik PowerCON (blue) connector to the blue power inlet socket. Do not force. To insert, align the
indexing tabs on the connectors, insert the plug fully into the socket and rotate clockwise until the latches catch.
To remove, pull back on the latch tab and rotate the connector counterclockwise to the index stop, then pull outwards.
6. Work backwards from the speakers to the outlets, making all PowerCON connections before plugging in to mains power.
7. Connect the electrical plug to a power source.
8. Move the POWER switch to the ON position.
9. Rotate the input attenuator clockwise to achieve the desired sound level.
The integrated DSP includes all the required processing for safe operation and alignment with the accompanying
BASSBOSS top boxes. DO NOT USE third-party outboard processing with BASSBOSS powered loudspeakers. This will not
improve, and will most likely degrade the sound quality and output capacity.
When connecting multiple BASSBOSS loudspeakers in a system, signal can be passed through from one powered
loudspeaker to another using XLR cables. No processing is applied to the signal as it passes through from the input
to the output connectors in each loudspeaker. Signal can be routed in any sequence because each loudspeaker
receives a full-range signal and applies the necessary processing in order to operate as part of the overall system. It is
recommended to run signal to the nearest box rst and patch to the next nearest box in sequence.
When connecting BASSBOSS speakers in a system including other brands of loudspeakers, it’s recommended
to connect the BASSBOSS speakers rst in sequence, then connect other speakers to the pass-through outputs. This
ensures that no inappropriate processing is applied to either loudspeaker.
The total power draw of one SSP218 amplier module is 15A. Only one SSP218 should be connected to a 20A circuit.
The typical power draw of one SSP218 amplier module is 5A. With heavy demand, the current draw can peak at 20A
for brief periods but under NEMA code, a 20A breaker should sustain a peak draw of 40A for several seconds without
tripping. In situations where circuits must be shared with other equipment or other brands, it’s recommended to power
combinations of a BASSBOSS subwoofer and a top on a circuit and to power each subwoofer and top combination on a
separate circuit to reduce the chances of overdrawing a circuit and tripping a breaker.

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There are 2 control knobs on the amplier.
1: GAIN
Provides attenuation of the input from o to full output. Use appropriate gain structure to ensure the output feeding the subwoofer
doesn’t reach clipping and distortion before maximum desired sound level is achieved. The amplier has a complement of limiters
and safeties to protect itself and the driver however, if audible distortion occurs, lower the level of the incoming signal.
2: EXO ADJUST
This control adjusts the eective crossover frequency allowing the subwoofer to be used with multiple sizes and styles of top boxes
while minimizing out-of-bandwidth noise and phase shift in the crossover region. Rotating the EXO knob fully counterclockwise
(left) results in an eective crossover frequency of 80Hz. Rotating it fully clockwise (right) results in an eective crossover frequency of
100Hz.
3. CARDIOID SWITCH
Toggle Switch allows selection between NORMAL mode and CARDIOID mode.
With the switch in the NORMAL (up) position, the speaker is in normal operating mode and any number of cabinets can be arrayed
side-by-side facing the same way when they are all in NORMAL mode.
When CARDIOID operation is desired, one or two cabinets must be used in NORMAL mode and at least one cabinet must be placed
in CARDIOID mode and its position reversed relative to the other cabinet(s) The ideal ratio is 2 cabinets in NORMAL with one
CARDIOID cabinet between them vertically or horizontally.
Reduced NORMAL >> Audience
Level << CARDIOID Audience
Area NORMAL >> Audience
The NORMAL mode cabinet(s) are used with the woofer facing towards the audience. The CARDIOID mode cabinet is rotated with
the woofer away from the audience and the CARDIOID SELECT SWITCH in the CARDIOID (down) position.
The cabinet in CARDIOID mode should have the EXO knob at the lowest level, rotated fully counterclockwise. The EXO setting on the
NORMAL mode cabinet(s) can be set to taste but all cabinets in NORMAL mode should be set the same.
Note: When the speaker is in CARDIOID mode, the green PWR LED is disabled because it will be facing the audience. The speaker
will still power up and play.
When only two cabinets are used, the cabinet in CARDIOID mode can be placed on top of the cabinet in NORMAL mode.
The cabinet in CARDIOID mode can also be placed adjacent to the NORMAL mode cabinet, with the NORMAL mode cabinets placed
farther from the stage or area where reduced level is desired. When only 2 cabinets are in use, the CARDIOID mode cabinet GAIN
should be reduced by 3dB. The greatest level reduction occurs on axis with a line drawn from the center of the NORMAL cabinet’s
bae, through the center of the CARDIOID cabinet’s bae.
Reduced << CARDIOID (-3dB) Audience
Level NORMAL >> Audience
Area Audience
Operation and Controls:
Three-dimensional
representation of cardioid
output pattern.

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If, after following the above instructions for setup, you have no output from the loudspeakers:
Verify that the green power (ON) LED is lit. If not, check the following:
( Note: The ON LED is disabled when CARDIOID mode is selected. To check for power, switch to
NORMAL mode to illuminate the LED)
1. Is the power cord plugged into a live outlet?
2. Is the Neutrik PowerCON connector rotated into the locked position?
3. Is the Power Switch on?
If the green power LED is on, check the following:
1. Is the signal cable connected to the input?
2. Is the signal cable connected to an operating output at the other end?
3. Is the signal owing to the input? Check the integrity of the cable by using a dierent cable.
4. Is the attenuator turned all the way down or at a very low level?
5. Is the signal owing to the input full-range? Filters in the signal may remove the operating
frequencies of the loudspeaker receiving them.
Troubleshooting:
Flash Sequence Codes for Warning Indicators and Protection Modes (Seen on Amp LED)
Long ashes followed by short ashes:
1-0 GROUND NOT CONNECTED: Amp still runs. Blinks 10 times on power-up then stops. Check power cord and
outlet wiring.
1-1 LINE HOT AND NEUTRAL REVERSED: Amp still runs. Blinks 10 times on power-up then stops. Check power cord
and outlet wiring.
1-2 GROUND NOT CONNECTED IN 240V MODE: Amp still runs. Check power cord and outlet wiring.
2-0 GFI TRIP: Amp shuts down. Power cycle to restore.
3-0 OVERHEAT SHUTDOWN: Amp shuts down. Restarts when temperature falls.
3-3 THERMAL LIMITER ACTING: Gain reduced to limit heat buildup. Amp still runs.
4-1 FAULT FROM GATE PCB WHILE AMP WAS WORKING: Amp shuts down. Service Required.
4-2 FAULT FROM PFC: (240V option only) Amp shuts down. Service Required. (May reset with power
cycle if false triggered.)
4-3 GFI MALFUNCTION: Amp shuts down. Service Required.
4-5 FAULT FROM GATE PCB: Amp shuts down. Service Required.
Amplier Flash Sequence Codes:

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4-7 BROWNOUT AT POWER-UP: Amp shuts down. Power cycle to restore. Check supply voltage.
4-8 UNABLE TO START AMPLIFIER: Power Cycle to restore. Check or eliminate power conditioner.
5-0 OVER-VOLTAGE: Amp turns o or won’t start. (Seen on 120V versions when connected to 240V outlets.)
6-0 UNDER-VOLTAGE: Amp turns o or won’t start. (Seen when Generators are overdrawn or long extension
cords are in use.)
6-6 LINE LIMTER ACTING: Amp still runs. Output reduced to limit current draw.
Need more assistance? Support is available via phone or email. Email: family@bassbo ss.com Phone: [phone] toll free
Safety Information:
Important information regarding safety and the use of your loudspeakers:
Never stand in the immediate vicinity of loudspeakers driven at a high level. Professional loudspeaker systems are capable of
causing a sound pressure level detrimental to human health. Seemingly non- critical sound levels (from approx. 95 dB SPL) can
cause hearing damage if people are exposed to it over a long period. To prevent potentially dangerous exposure to high levels of
acoustic pressure, anyone who is exposed to these levels should use adequate protection devices.
When a transducer capable of producing high sound levels is being used, it is necessary to wear ear plugs or protective
earphones. See the manual technical specications to know the maximum sound pressure level.
In order to prevent accidents when setting up the loudspeakers or loudspeaker stands, make sure they are standing on a rm
surface.
Ensure that all additional hardware, xings and fasteners used for installation or mobile deployment are of an appropriate size
and load safety factor.
Pay attention to the manufacturers’ instructions and to the relevant safety guidelines.
Regularly check the loudspeaker housings and accessories for visible signs of wear and tear, and replace them when necessary.
Regularly check all load bearing bolts in the mounting devices.
Caution: Loudspeakers produce a static magnetic eld even if they are not connected or are not in use. Therefore make sure when
erecting and transporting loudspeakers that they are nowhere near equipment and objects which may be impaired or damaged
by an external magnetic eld. A distance of 3 feet (1m) should be maintained between loudspeakers and sensitive equipment
such as CRT monitors or magnetic storage media.
Never attempt to carry out any operations, modications or repairs that are not expressly described in this manual.
Contact your dealer or BASSBOSS support if the product is not functioning properly.
BASSBOSS strongly recommends this product be installed by a qualied, professional installer who can ensure correct installation
and certify that it is installed in compliance with the regulations in force.
The entire audio system must comply with the current local standards and regulations regarding electrical systems.
To prevent the occurrence of noise on signal cables, use shielded cables only. Avoid routing signal cables close to equipment that
produces high-intensity electromagnetic elds such as transformers, power cables and loudspeaker wires. Do not coil excess power
cable. Do not coil or wrap power cables and signal cables together.
Important Notes:

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Thanks for being BASSBOSS Family!
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Our extensive “Sound Defense” transferable warranty covers all BASSBOSS products.
STANDARD CABINET WARRANTY
BASSBOSS loudspeaker cabinet integrity, including all joinery, fasteners, handles and wood, is warranted
against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of six (6) years from the date of purchase. This
warranty does not cover items that are intended to wear and can be replaced if worn or damaged. Examples
of items not covered by this warranty are cabinet feet, grills and the nish or coating applied to the cabinet.
ENHANCED COMPONENT WARRANTY
BASSBOSS ampliers and electronic components are covered against failures due to defects in materials
and/or workmanship for a period of three years from the date of purchase.
NO WORRIES WOOFER WARRANTY
Transducers, including burned or open voice coils in subwoofers, are covered for two years from the date of
purchase.
OUR SUPPORT
It is our goal to provide trouble-free loudspeakers. That objective begins as part of the design phase and
continues on through to any service you may require. In order to be able to provide the lowest possible failure
rate, the best possible warranty service and the fastest turn-around time, we request that you contact us
immediately if you notice any problem with your system, and before youv attempt any repairs. We can provide
the best and fastest solution if we know the details of the problem before any repair attempts are made.
Often BASSBOSS technicians can troubleshoot problems that may arise and no repair or further service will
be necessary.
Warranty support is a service, and part of that service includes helping you prevent failures and minimize repair
and shipping costs. Please do not ship products without rst obtaining a return authorization number by calling
855-822-7770 toll-free or by emailing [email protected]. BASSBOSS service technicians will provide
assistance and instructions on shipping and packaging requirements specic to your service needs.
WARRANTY LIMITATIONS
During the warranty period, if your loudspeaker malfunctions or fails due to any defect in components or
manufacturing, the failed parts will be repaired or replaced. This warranty does not extend to damage resulting
from improper installation, misuse, neglect or abuse. Warranty coverage and eligibility will be determined
upon inspection by BASSBOSS personnel. This warranty does not cover labor other than that authorized and
performed by BASSBOSS personnel. Service will be performed upon the return of the failed unit, together with
its original sales receipt or other proof of purchase, to BASSBOSS or an Authorized Service Facility.

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Purchaser is responsible for all costs of shipping and handling. Cosmetic damage is specically excluded from
this warranty. This warranty is rendered void if service, repairs and/or modications are attempted or made by
anyone not specically authorized by BASSBOSS to perform said services. Please contact BASSBOSS or your
local BASSBOSS dealer before attempting any repairs and before shipping parts in for service. This warranty
gives you specic legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state. For more
information concerning BASSBOSS service and warranty policies please contact us at [phone] toll-free.
EXPORT WARRANTY
BASSBOSS products can be purchased worldwide. In countries without local BASSBOSS distributors, product
requiring service must be shipped back to the US for warranty repairs. In most cases, the entire cabinet will
not need to be shipped. Generally only the individual aected parts will need to be shipped to the factory for
servicing. Please contact BASSBOSS before attempting any repairs and before shipping parts in for service.
SHIPPING AND PACKAGING
Please package your returns safely and securely. BASSBOSS does not cover damage that occurs in transit.
Freight insurance is highly recommended.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
CAUTION: Changes or modications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one
or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
FCC Compliance Notice:

famil[email protected]
855-822-7770 toll free
www.bassboss.com
Need more assistance?
Support is available via phone or email.
SSP218
Dual 18” Powered Subwoofer